Articles tagged with Regional Spatial Plans

New Zealand’s New Planning and Natural Environment Acts Now Law, Driving RMA Reform

New Zealand's Planning Act and Natural Environment Act have received Royal assent, replacing the Resource Management Act 1991 and establishing a new planning system aimed at simplifying development, enhancing environmental management, and providing greater certainty for communities and investors. The new system emphasizes upfront decision-making through national policy direction, consistent standards, and long-term regional spatial planning to guide growth, protection, and infrastructure over the next 30 years. Implementation will involve collaboration with councils, iwi, and stakeholders, supported by digital tools and a dedicated website, with key milestones including finalizing policy direction by 2027 and full system operation by 2030.